Excoecaria Cochinchinensis

Description

Excoecaria Cochinchinensis, commonly referred to as the Blind-your-eye plant or the Chinese croton, is a tropical shrub that belongs to the Euphorbiaceae family. It is native to Southeast Asia, including Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Thailand, and Vietnam. This plant is popular among gardeners due to its striking appearance and low maintenance requirements.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

The Excoecaria Cochinchinensis plant grows up to 6 feet tall, with a spread of about 3 feet. It has an upright growth habit and forms a dense, rounded, and bushy shape. The leaves are glossy, ovate, and measure about 4-10 cm in length. The plant’s stem and leaves contain a milky sap that can cause skin irritation and eye irritation if it comes in contact with them. The flowers of the plant are small, green, and not very showy. The plant’s foliage is the primary feature that makes it a popular ornamental plant.

Care Guide

Excoecaria Cochinchinensis is a low maintenance plant that can thrive in a wide range of conditions. Here is a care guide for this plant:

Water: The plant prefers moist soil but can tolerate short periods of dryness. Water the plant when the top inch of the soil is dry.

Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. Avoid over-fertilizing as it can cause the leaves to drop off.

Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A soil mix containing peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite is suitable.

Sunlight: The plant prefers bright, indirect light but can also tolerate partial shade. Avoid exposing the plant to direct sunlight as it can scorch the leaves.

Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 10-11. It cannot tolerate frost and must be protected during winter in colder areas.

Common Pests & Diseases

Excoecaria Cochinchinensis is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but it can be susceptible to the following:

Mealybugs: These pests suck the sap from the plant, causing yellowing and stunted growth. Treat the plant with a solution of neem oil and water to get rid of mealybugs.

Spider Mites: These pests are tiny and difficult to spot. They cause yellowing and stippling of the leaves. Treat the plant with a solution of insecticidal soap and water to control spider mites.

Crown Rot: This disease is caused by a fungus that attacks the roots of the plant, causing wilting and death. Avoid overwatering the plant to prevent crown rot.

Habitat

Excoecaria Cochinchinensis is native to Southeast Asia and can be found in a variety of habitats, including forests, swamps, and wetlands. It prefers moist soil and can tolerate partial shade.

Questions and Answers

Q: Is Excoecaria Cochinchinensis poisonous?

A: Yes, Excoecaria Cochinchinensis is poisonous. The plant’s milky sap contains a toxic substance called croton oil, which can cause skin irritation, eye irritation, and gastrointestinal problems if ingested.

Q: How often should I water my Excoecaria Cochinchinensis plant?

A: Water the plant when the top inch of the soil is dry. Avoid overwatering the plant as it can cause root rot.

Q: Can I grow Excoecaria Cochinchinensis indoors?

A: Yes, Excoecaria Cochinchinensis can be grown indoors as a houseplant. It prefers bright, indirect light and moist soil.

Q: How can I propagate Excoecaria Cochinchinensis?

A: Excoecaria Cochinchinensis can be propagated by stem cuttings. Take a cutting from the plant’s stem, remove the lower leaves, and plant it in a potting mix. Keep the soil moist and place the pot in bright, indirect light.

Related Plants

Here are some related plants to Excoecaria Cochinchinensis:

• Excoecaria Agallocha
• Excoecaria Bicolor
• Excoecaria Javanica
• Excoecaria Orientale

References

• “Excoecaria Cochinchinensis.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=287408&isprofile=0&basic=excoecaria.
• “Excoecaria Cochinchinensis.” Gardening Know How, www.gardeningknowhow.com/houseplants/blind-your-eye-plant/growing-blind-your-eye-plant.htm.
• “Excoecaria Cochinchinensis.” Plant Care Today, plantcaretoday.com/excoecaria-cochinchinensis.